decent knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decent knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an understanding or level of knowledge of something that is more than basic. For example: "He has decent knowledge of the American legal system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

But without a decent knowledge of appraisal guidelines, that can be difficult to do.

The New York Times

Ross evidently spent several years in Japan in the early 1990s, and acquired a decent knowledge of the language.

The Guardian - Books

But it could just as easily have been covered by a theatre critic, albeit one with a decent knowledge of experimental practice.

The Guardian

I think of myself as someone with a fairly decent knowledge of English literature, with one exception - until a couple of years ago I knew next to nothing about plays.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Despite a decent knowledge base, established brands and a captive domestic market for consumer electronics, the big five have failed to bear the pain of a global downturn in the market for chips.

The Economist

She comes from an art background (having attended Parsons the New School for Design for two years) but her specialty - platinum - calls for a decent knowledge of chemistry: "I'm one of the few colorists who likes to do double-process blondes," she says.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

But with decent connectivity knowledge will travel at the speed of light," declared Juma.

The Guardian - Tech

I was deprived of decent food, knowledge of time and normal toilet facilities and prevented from practicing my religion.

Huffington Post

Have a decent subject knowledge.

WikiHow

A decent working knowledge of music theory will help a lot with transposing any instruments.

WikiHow

Try to only gamble on matches you have a decent amount of knowledge about, such as your favourite team.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "decent knowledge" to describe a level of understanding that is more than basic but not expert. It is suitable when the context requires a practical or functional understanding rather than in-depth expertise.

Common error

Avoid using "decent knowledge" when describing someone with advanced skills or expertise. This phrase can downplay their actual proficiency. Instead, opt for terms like "extensive knowledge" or "expert understanding".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decent knowledge" functions as a noun phrase, where "decent" modifies the noun "knowledge". It describes a moderate or acceptable level of understanding or skill in a particular subject or area. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decent knowledge" is a correct and usable phrase that describes a level of understanding that is more than basic but not expert. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When using the phrase, remember that it implies competence without mastery, and alternatives like "reasonable understanding" or "working knowledge" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. While widely accepted, it's crucial to ensure it accurately reflects the level of expertise being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable understanding

Indicates a level of comprehension that is adequate but not necessarily expert.

fair grasp

Implies a competent but not comprehensive understanding.

solid foundation

Suggests a reliable base of knowledge upon which to build.

working knowledge

Focuses on practical understanding sufficient for specific tasks.

adequate familiarity

Highlights being sufficiently acquainted with a subject.

serviceable expertise

Emphasizes a level of skill that is useful and functional.

passable acquaintance

Suggests a minimal but acceptable level of knowledge.

moderate awareness

Implies a limited but present understanding.

respectable command

Indicates a noteworthy level of proficiency or control of information.

sound awareness

Focuses on a good level of consciousness and knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "decent knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "decent knowledge" to describe a level of understanding that is more than basic but not expert. For example: "He has a "decent knowledge" of the American legal system."

What can I say instead of "decent knowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "reasonable understanding", "fair grasp", or "working knowledge" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "decent knowledge" or "good knowledge"?

"Decent knowledge" and "good knowledge" are similar, but "decent knowledge" implies a practical, functional understanding, while "good knowledge" can suggest a more comprehensive or theoretical understanding. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "decent knowledge" and "extensive knowledge"?

"Decent knowledge" suggests a moderate, acceptable level of understanding, whereas "extensive knowledge" implies a thorough and comprehensive understanding of a subject. Use "extensive knowledge" when describing expertise and deep proficiency.